Curator’s statement
Volcanoes National Park is home to a few of the world's largest populations of silverback mountain gorillas in the world. With five extinct volcanoes and thick jungle vegetation with farmlands and some tea plantations below, this location has to be the most beautiful in Africa. Bisate Lodge is the perfect luxury option to choose from when taking into account this majestic landscape with unforgettable views. Traditional rainforest villas, inspired by Rwandan royalty, offer breathtaking views of the Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno volcanoes, immersing you in the raw beauty of Africa's oldest national park. In general, you will have a complete trip with wine cellar, library, spa, restaurant and tree nursery, along with some hospitality will complete this journey.
The Fora Difference
Book with Joshua to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Rwanda
Bisate Lodge
Eco-lodge located near Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda featuring opulent villas with stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, a gourmet restaurant, a bar and personalized service. Guests can enjoy activities such as gorilla trekking and community visits.
One&Only Gorilla's Nest
Offering once-in-a-lifetime nature retreats, this luxury property is set in the foothills of Volcanoes National Park.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage or spa credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade whenever possible.
The Retreat by Heaven
The Retreat by Heaven offers luxurious accommodations in Kigali, blending eco-friendly design with exceptional Rwandan hospitality for an unforgettable experience.
Unlock perks by contacting Joshua to book your trip.
Things to do in Rwanda
Things to do in Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda is known for the mountain gorillas in the Park Volcanoes and its misty, thick jungle atmosphere with the five listed volcanoes surrounded this beautiful landscape. The land of thousand hills is home to many gorilla families who at one point were almost extinct before the arrival of Dianne Fossey made efforts to restore the population in the late 1960s until her death in 1985.
For the fun-seeking adventurer, you can start with a trek coordinated by Bisate Lodge to trek its beauty. Your bucket-list gorilla trekking includes pioneering conservation. And seeing unreal landscape. With exceptional wilderness hospitality at Rwanda's Bisate, you can do a 4-night trek at Bisale Lodge and get the best Rwanda has to offer.
Another notable landmark in the middle of Volcanoes National Park is Karisoke Research Center, founded by Dian Fossey on 24 September 1967 to study endangered mountain gorillas.
Day trips:
Consider a day trip from the town of Musanze to twin lakes Ruhondo and Burera, where a perfect picnic and canoe activity awaits you. A popular walking trail includes the three-hour Ngezi Lake trail (considered the shortest trail in the Park Volcanoes) where tourists can encounter monkeys and some bird species. Lake Ngezi is a small crater lake on Mt. Bisoke where another famous walk is the hike to the Sacred Buhanga forest with breathtaking nature walking experience to explore the rich historical and cultural encounters of Rwanda. Take a trip to visit Musanze Caves (outside the Park) in Musanze Province, where you get a glimpse of old rock formations still in somewhat pristine condition.
Places to eat & drink in Rwanda
Garden Place Hotel and Coffee Shop
Garden Place & Coffee Shop is a luxurious coffee shop that gives a more ultimate comfort. Enjoy the best food and drinks you will die for, such as Espresso, Americano, Cappuccino, Iced Spiced Tea and Tea with Nido and many more.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is the most accessible accommodation and one of the best places to eat while on Volcanoes NP. This boutique hotel is set at the edge of the park where it really has the best restaurants offering meals from traditional Rwandan to Western, Italian and Indian, along with a bar.
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Located at the foothills of the Virunga Mountain ranges, this luxury hospitality establishment offers guests visiting Volcanoes Park delicious meals, including a typical western-style breakfast with scrambled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, onions, toast with jam and great Rwandan coffee. They have nice meals and prepare for your comfort with nice views of the volcano.
Minnak Restaurant
Visit Minnak Restaurant is known for its 1000s of flavors. Tasty food and drinks along with some happiness and love can be found at Minnak Restaurant in Nyakinama, about 9 minutes drive from Ruhengeri. Enjoy different cuisines ranging from African, fast food, international to a must-try barbecue for breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Volcana Lounge
This is the 7th-ranked restaurant in Ruhengeri. Volcana Lounge is set close to Musanze district offices and is known for its taste of pizza and drinks. It is a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city and a relaxing atmosphere. The Falafel and Chocolate Mousse for dessert is a must. But the pizza is a must-try.
Travel Advisor
Joshua Mahlum
Get in touch with Joshua
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Joshua within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Rwanda. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Arun Sastry's guide, Rwanda: Mountain Gorillas, Coffee, Gorgeous Landscapes and More.